Visualization Instrument

ABSTRACT

A visualization instrument comprising a display support component removably coupled to a component insertable into a target space. The insertable component includes a camera providing images of the target space. The images are presented in a display device supported by the display support component. The insertable component may be discarded after a permitted number of uses.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 61/314,058 entitled INTUBATION INSTRUMENT WITH VISUALIZATION FEATURES filed on Mar. 15, 2010 and U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 61/265,330 entitled INTUBATION SYSTEM WITH ELASTOMERIC FEATURES filed on Nov. 30, 2009, the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates generally to a system including a visualization instrument comprising a camera to view an internal space and, more particularly, to a visualization instrument comprising a camera to examine the interior of a patient.

BACKGROUND

Visualization instruments include endoscopes, laryngoscopes, borescopes and other medical instruments designed to look inside the body of a patient. Medical visualization instruments are used in a multitude of medical procedures including laryngoscopy, rhinoscopy, bronchoscopy, cystoscopy, hysteroscopy, laparoscopy, arthroscopy, etc. Visualization instruments are also used in non-medical applications such as to investigate the internal structures of machines, buildings, and explosive devices. Laryngoscopes are used to obtain view of the vocal folds and the glottis to perform noninvasive tracheal intubations. A conventional rigid laryngoscope consists of a handle with a light source and a blade. Direct laryngoscopy is usually carried out with the patient lying on his or her back. The laryngoscope is inserted into the mouth, typically on the right side, and pushed towards the left side to move the tongue out of the line of sight and to create a pathway for insertion of an endotracheal tube. The blade may be lifted with an upwards and forward motion to move the epiglottis and make a view of the glottis possible. Once the laryngoscope is in place, the endotracheal tube may be inserted into the pathway. The blade may be provided with guide surfaces to guide the insertion of the endotracheal tube. Laryngoscopes may be outfitted with illumination devices and optical devices to provide views of the vocal cords externally of the patient's body. Optical devices include lenses, mirrors, prisms and fiberoptic fibers, all adapted to transfer an optical image. Imaging devices may also be provided to capture the optical images and display the optical images in high definition display monitors.

Stylets and other visualization instruments have also been developed. Each instrument has its own limitations such as, for example, fogging, insufficient lighting to produce a good optical image, inability to project images remotely, additional procedural steps to insert the endotracheal tube, and cost. As difficult intubations may be performed remotely from a hospital, such as at the scene of an accident or military battle, it would be desirable to provide emergency responders and others affordable equipment necessary to perform field intubations. It would be desirable to provide visualization instruments which may be discarded after a single or a limited number of uses.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A visualization instrument and a method of using the visualization instrument are disclosed herein. The visualization instrument is insertable into a space to capture images representing internal views of the space. The visualization instrument comprises an insertable portion supporting an imaging sensor and a video device configured to display images corresponding to views captured by the imaging sensor.

In one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a visualization instrument is provided. The visualization instrument comprising a display device; an imaging assembly including a camera and a lens, the camera including an imaging sensor, an imaging support having a distal surface and an optical cavity, the optical cavity defining a cavity opening in the distal surface, the lens and the camera sealed within the optical cavity to keep the optical cavity dry, the camera outputting a digital image stream corresponding to a plurality of views obtained through the lens; a handle portion detachably coupled to the display device; a self-contained energy source supported by one of the handle portion and the display device; and an insertable portion coupled to the handle portion and insertable into the patient, the insertable portion having a distal cavity with a distal opening at a distal end thereof, the imaging assembly received by the distal cavity through the distal opening, the imaging assembly electronically coupled to the display device when the insertable portion is coupled to the handle portion and the handle portion is coupled to the display device to present images corresponding to the plurality of views with the display device.

In one example thereof, the insertable portion further comprises a guide pathway adapted for guiding a tube into a patient, the distal cavity and the guide pathway arranged laterally to each other to reduce an anterior/posterior height of the insertable portion.

In another example thereof, the handle portion and the insertable portion are integrally formed as a single piece blade.

In yet another example thereof, the insertable portion further comprises an anterior guide surface and a medial guide surface, the anterior guide surface and the medial guide surface defining a guide pathway adapted for guiding a tube into a patient. In a variation thereof, the anterior guide surface and the medial guide surface are substantially orthogonal to each other. In a further variation thereof, the tube is distinguishable in the digital image stream as the tube passes through a field of view of the lens. In another variation thereof, the guide pathway comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion, the insertable portion further comprising a posterior guide surface opposite the anterior guide surface and a lateral guide surface opposite the medial guide surface, the distal portion of the guide pathway defined by the anterior guide surface, the posterior guide surface, the medial guide surface and the lateral guide surface. In a further variation thereof, the proximal portion of the guide pathway is shorter than the distal portion. In yet another variation, a proximal portion length of the proximal portion of the guide pathway, measured along a center line of the insertion portion, is at most 40% of a distal portion length of the distal portion of the guide pathway. In a further variation, the medial guide surface includes a transition portion extending through the proximal portion of the guide pathway and a longitudinally aligned portion extending through the distal portion of the guide pathway, wherein the transition portion extends from a side of the insertable portion to the longitudinally aligned portion. In a further variation, the transition portion extends from a lateral side of the insertable portion.

In a further example, the insertable portion further comprises an anterior wall and a medial wall, the anterior wall and the medial wall defining a guide pathway adapted for guiding a tube into a patient, the guide pathway adjacent a side of the medial wall and the distal cavity adjacent an opposite side of the medial wall, the anterior wall having a tip portion extending distally beyond the medial wall. In a variation thereof, the tip portion includes a textured surface adapted to engage a tissue of the patient. In another variation thereof, the textured surface includes a plurality of ridges arranged in a regulated pattern. In a further variation thereof, the plurality of ridges are longitudinally aligned. In yet another variation thereof, the textured surface has a first coefficient of friction measured in a first direction and a second coefficient of friction measured in a second direction different from the first direction. In a further variation thereof, the tip portion includes one or more flexural support feature. In another variation thereof, the one or more flexural support feature increases a flexural strength of the tip portion by at least 5%. In another variation thereof, the flexural support feature comprises at least one of a longitudinally aligned ridge, a longitudinally aligned wall portion, and a transverse curvature of the tip portion.

In yet a further example, the insertable portion comprises an elongate tubular member. In a variation thereof, the elongate tubular member is malleable. In another variation thereof, the elongate tubular member is steerable, further comprising a steering mechanism supported by the handle portion.

In another example, the imaging assembly is permanently attached to the insertable portion.

In yet another example, the visualization instrument further comprises further includes an electronic connector affixed to the insertable portion and accessible from the distal cavity, the imaging assembly removably connects to the connector when it is received by the distal cavity.

In another example, the visualization instrument further comprises a translucent cover attached to the distal surface, the translucent cover including an anti-fog coating.

In a further example, the visualization instrument further comprises a second lens and a camera barrel having a barrel cavity, the lens positioned between the distal surface and the camera barrel when the camera barrel is received by the optical cavity, and the second lens received by the camera barrel and positioned between the camera barrel and the camera.

In a yet further example, the visualization instrument further comprises a motion sensor detecting motion of the display device and disabling presentation of the images when motion is not detected during a predetermined amount of time.

In another example, the camera forms the digital image stream using radiation having wavelengths ranging between 10 nanometers and 14,000 nanometers. In a variation thereof, the elongate tubular member is malleable. In another variation thereof, the camera forms the digital image stream using radiation having wavelengths in the visible light spectrum.

In yet another example, the visualization instrument further comprises a protrusion and a recess configured to receive the protrusion, the recess and the protrusion generating an audible sound when the handle portion couples to the display device. In a variation thereof, the visualization instrument further comprises a display device support portion supporting the display device, the handle portion includes a handle cavity adapted to receive the display device support portion thereby coupling the display device to the insertable portion, one of the protrusion and the recess are positioned on the display device support portion and the other of the protrusion and the recess are positioned inside the handle cavity.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a visualization instrument partially insertable into a patient is provided. The visualization instrument comprising a display device; a lens; a camera including an imaging sensor, the camera outputting a digital image stream corresponding to a plurality of views obtained through the lens; a handle portion detachably coupled to the display device; a self-contained energy source supported by one of the handle portion and the display device; and an insertable portion coupled to the handle portion and insertable into the patient, the insertable portion having a distal cavity at a distal end thereof receiving the lens and the camera, the camera electronically coupled to the display device when the insertable portion is coupled to the handle portion and the handle portion is coupled to the display device to present images corresponding to the plurality of views with the display device, the insertable portion further comprising at least two substantially non-resilient walls and at least one resilient wall, the at least two non-resilient walls and the at least one resilient wall forming a guide pathway operable to guide insertion of a tube into the patient and defining an elongate opening, the at least one resilient wall deforming when at least a portion of the tube is removed through the elongate opening.

In one example thereof, the handle portion and the insertable portion are integrally formed as a single piece blade. In one variation thereof, the blade is configured to be discarded after a single use.

In another example thereof, the guide pathway defines a proximal anterior/posterior height at one end thereof and a distal anterior/posterior height at a distal end thereof, the proximal anterior/posterior height being greater than the distal anterior/posterior height. In a variation thereof, the distal anterior/posterior height is at least 0.5 mm greater than the distal anterior/posterior height. In another variation thereof, the distal anterior/posterior height is at least 1.0 mm greater than the distal anterior/posterior height.

In yet another example thereof, further comprising a distal tip, the distal tip extends distally beyond the lens, the distal tip having a textured surface operable to displace the glottis of the patient.

In a further example thereof, further comprising a distal tip extending distally beyond the lens and a processing device, the distal tip includes a use indicia positioned within the field of view of the lens and operable to determine a use state of the insertable portion, wherein the processing device disables presentation of the images when the use state indicates prior uses exceed a permitted number of uses.

In a further example thereof, further comprising a distal tip extending distally beyond the lens, the distal tip includes flexural strengthening features to reduce flexure of the distal tip by at least 5% when the distal tip engages the patient's tissue. In a variation thereof, the flexural strengthening features comprise at least one of a curved profile of the distal tip along its width, a longitudinal ridge extending from a surface of the distal tip, and a longitudinal wall.

In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a visualization instrument partially insertable into a patient is provided. The visualization instrument comprising an insertable portion having guiding means for guiding insertion of a tube into a patient, the guiding means resiliently deforming when at least a portion of the tube is removed through the guiding means; attachment means for detachably coupling a display device to the insertable portion; and; imaging means for capturing a plurality of images corresponding to a field of view of the imaging means and outputting a digital image stream operable to present corresponding images with the display device.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a visualization instrument provided. The visualization instrument comprising a display device; a lens; a camera including an imaging sensor, the camera outputting a digital image stream corresponding to a plurality of views obtained through the lens; a handle portion detachably coupled to the display device; a self-contained energy source supported by one of the handle portion and the display device; an insertable portion coupled to the handle portion and insertable into the patient, the insertable portion having a distal cavity at a distal end thereof receiving the lens and the camera, the camera electronically coupled to the display device when the insertable portion is coupled to the handle portion and the handle portion is coupled to the display device to present images corresponding to the plurality of views with the display device; and a use indicia located in one of the handle portion and the insertable portion, the use indicia operable to determine prior uses of the insertable portion and to disable presentation of the images when the prior uses exceed a permitted number of uses.

In one example thereof, the permitted number of uses is one. In another example thereof, the use indicia provides information regarding environmental variables including at least one of temperature and humidity. In a further example thereof, the use indicia comprises a single-use fuse.

In yet another example, the visualization instrument further comprises a processing device cooperating with the use indicia to determine the prior uses. In an example thereof, the instrument further comprises a sensing device electronically coupled to the processing device and sensing the use indicia to determine the prior uses. In another example thereof, the instrument further comprises an image sensor identifier, wherein the processing device determines the prior uses based on the image sensor identifier. In a variation thereof, the image sensor identifier is stored in the camera. In another variation, further comprising an electronic device storing the image sensor identifier, the electronic device is supported by one of the handle portion and the insertable portion and electronically coupled to the processing device when the insertable portion is coupled to the display device.

In a further example, the insertable portion comprises an elongate tubular member. In a variation thereof, the elongate tubular member is malleable. In another variation, the elongate tubular member is steerable, further comprising a steering mechanism supported by the handle portion.

In yet another example thereof, the visualization instrument is adapted to intubate a patient with a tube, wherein the tube is distinguishable in the images presented with the display device as the tube passes through a field of view of the lens.

In another example, the handle portion and the insertable portion are integrally formed as a single piece blade, the blade further comprising at least two guide surfaces defining a guide pathway.

In yet another example, further comprising a processing device, a camera identifier, a data storage device, and a plurality of camera identifiers stored in the data storage device, the processing device compares the camera identifier to the plurality of camera identifiers to find a match and disables presentation of the images if the match is not found.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a visualization partially insertable into a patient is provided, the visualization instrument comprising an insertable portion having guiding means for guiding insertion of a tube into a patient; attachment means for detachably coupling a display device to the insertable portion; imaging means for capturing a plurality of images corresponding to a field of view of the imaging means and outputting a digital image stream operable to present corresponding images with the display device; and use tracking means for disabling presentation of the corresponding images when the insertable portion has been used more than a permitted number of uses.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a visualization kit is provided. The visualization kit comprising a first component insertable into an oral cavity of a patient, the first component including a first camera operable to transmit first images of the oral cavity; a second component different from and interchangeable with the first component, the second component including a second camera operable to transmit second images; a third component detachably attachable to the first component and the second component and sized to be held by a hand of a user, the third component including a viewable screen and being communicatively coupled to the first camera when the third component is attached to the first component and to the second camera when the third component is attached to the second component; wherein the viewable screen presents images corresponding to one of the first images and the second images. In one example thereof, the first component comprises a guide pathway adapted to guide insertion of a tube into the oral cavity and the second component comprises a stylet.

In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a visualization method is provided. The visualization method comprising the steps of providing an insertable component having a camera; detachably coupling a display support component to the insertable component, the display support component sized to be held by a hand of a user and including a display device, the display support component being communicatively coupled to the camera when the display support component is coupled to the insertable component; inserting the insertable component into a target space; capturing with the camera a plurality of views corresponding to a field of view of the camera; presenting with the display device a plurality of images corresponding to the plurality of views; aligning the field of view with a target within the target space; removing the insertable component from the target space; and detaching the display support component from the insertable component. In an example thereof, the method further comprises the step of discarding the insertable component. In another example, the method further comprises the step of tracking uses of the insertable component and disabling presentation of the plurality of images when the insertable portion has been used more than a permitted number of uses. In a variation thereof, the step of tracking uses comprises sensing a use indicia. In a further variation thereof, the step of tracking uses comprises storing a use indicia after use of the insertable component.

In yet another example thereof, the target space is an interior of a patient and the target comprises the vocal cords of the patient, and the method further comprises the step of intubating the patient using the insertable component before removing the insertable component from the target space. In a variation thereof, the insertable component comprises a resilient portion, and the removing step includes the step of resiliently deforming the resilient portion.

In a further example thereof, the display device includes a display side and an opposite side opposite the display side, the display support component further comprising a rest surface and a switch, the rest surface and the switch disposed on the opposite side, further comprising the step of laying the display support component to rest on the rest surface without actuating the switch.

In another example thereof, the method further comprises the steps of comparing with a processing device a camera identifier to a plurality of camera identifiers stored in a memory device to find a match, and disabling presentation of the plurality of images if the match is not found.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a visualization instrument configured to intubate a patient is provided. The visualization instrument comprising a display device including a display driver and a display; an imaging assembly having an image sensor, a transparent cover, a plurality of lenses between the image sensor and the transparent cover, and an illumination device illuminating a cavity of the patient, the imaging assembly configured to transfer an image stream representing views of the cavity to the display device; a control component including a processor, a memory, and a program embedded in the memory, the processor receiving the data stream from the imaging assembly, transforming the data stream into a second data stream, and providing the second data stream to the display driver to show the views of the cavity on the display; a housing coupled to the display device and having a first connector configured to receive the second data stream from the control component; and an insertable portion having a proximal cavity configured to receive the housing and a distal cavity configured to receive the imaging assembly, the insertable portion also including a second connector configured transfer the first image stream from the imaging assembly through the first connector to the control component, the insertable portion further including a passageway configured to guide insertion of an elongate tubular component into the cavity, wherein the imaging assembly is configured to capture in the first image stream images of a distal end of the tubular component as the tubular component slides through the guide; an identification source located in the insertable portion; and a sensor communicatively coupled with the control component and configured to sense an identification signal from the identification source, the identification signal operable to ascertain a prior use of the insertable portion, the control component being configured to detect the prior use based on the identification signal and to prevent operation of the imaging assembly upon detection of the prior use.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a visualization instrument is provided. The visualization instrument comprising a display device including a display driver and a display; an imaging assembly having an image sensor, a transparent cover, a lens between the image sensor and the transparent cover, and an illumination device illuminating a cavity of the patient, the imaging assembly configured to transfer an image stream representing views of the cavity to the display device; a control component including a processor, a memory, and a program embedded in the memory, the processor receiving the data stream from the imaging assembly, transforming the data stream into a second data stream, and providing the second data stream to the display driver to show the views of the cavity on the display; a housing coupled to the display device and having a first connector configured to receive the second data stream from the control component; and an insertable portion having a proximal cavity configured to receive the housing and a distal cavity configured to receive the imaging assembly, the insertable portion also including a second connector, a passageway, and a distal tip, the second connector configured to transfer the first image stream from the imaging assembly through the first connector to the control component, passageway configured to guide insertion of an elongate tubular component into the cavity, and the distal tip engaging a glottis of a patient, the distal tip having a lateral wall extending distally beyond the distal cavity and a textured surface configured to engage the glottis, wherein the imaging assembly is configured to capture in the first image stream images of a distal end of the tubular component as the tubular component slides through the guide.

In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a visualization instrument is provided. The visualization instrument comprising a display device including a display driver and a display; an imaging assembly having an image sensor, a transparent cover, a lens between the image sensor and the transparent cover, and an illumination device illuminating a cavity of the patient, the imaging assembly configured to transfer an image stream representing views of the cavity to the display device; a control component including a processor, a memory, and a program embedded in the memory, the processor receiving the data stream from the imaging assembly, transforming the data stream into a second data stream, and providing the second data stream to the display driver to show the views of the cavity on the display; a housing coupled to the display device and having a first connector configured to receive the second data stream from the control component; and an insertable portion having a proximal cavity configured to receive the housing and a distal end having a distal cavity configured to receive the imaging assembly, the insertable portion also including a second connector, a passageway, and a distal tip, the second connector configured to transfer the first image stream from the imaging assembly through the first connector to the control component, passageway configured to guide insertion of an elongate tubular component into the cavity, and the distal tip engaging a glottis of a patient, the distal tip having a lateral wall extending distally beyond the distal cavity and a textured surface configured to engage the glottis, wherein the distal tip exhibits a curvature perpendicularly to a length of the insertable portion and includes at least a portion of a ridge parallel to the length of the insertable portion, the curvature and the ridge enhancing the flexural strength of the distal tip by at least 5%.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a visualization instrument configured to intubate a patient is provided. The visualization instrument comprising an insertable component including a camera, at least two lenses, and an illumination device to illuminate the oral cavity of the patient when the insertable component is inserted, at least partially, into the oral cavity, the insertable component being configured to guide insertion of a tube through the vocal cords of the patient, and the camera being mounted on the insertable component so as to capture images of a distal end of the tube as the tube enters the vocal cords; a reusable component including a display device and a video processing portion, the reusable component being removably attachable to the insertable component; an identification insignia on the insertable component; and a sensor supported by the reusable component and operable to sense the identification insignia, wherein the reusable component determines an identity data of the insertable component based on the identification insignia, and determines a status of the insertable component by comparing the identity data to a plurality of identity and status data corresponding to a plurality of insertable components.

The features of this invention, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an elevation view of an embodiment of a visualization instrument;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment of an imaging assembly;

FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of the visualization instrument of FIG. 1 illustrating the imaging assembly of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of the visualization instrument of FIG. 1 illustrating the imaging assembly of FIG. 2 and a view obtainable with the imaging assembly;

FIGS. 5 and 6 are perspective views of another embodiment of imaging assembly;

FIGS. 7 and 8 are cross-sectional perspective and elevation views of a further embodiment of an imaging assembly;

FIGS. 9 and 10 are perspective proximal and distal views of yet another embodiment of an imaging assembly;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an embodiment of electronic components of a visualization instrument.

FIGS. 12 and 13 are diagrammatic views of embodiments of visualization systems;

FIG. 14 is a depiction of a visualization device operable with the visualization system of FIGS. 12 and 13;

FIGS. 15 and 16 are elevation and perspective views of another embodiment of a visualization instrument;

FIGS. 17 and 18 are partial perspective views of the distal portion of the visualization instrument of FIGS. 15 and 16;

FIGS. 19 and 20 are partial plan views of alternative embodiments of the distal end of an insertable portion of a visualization instrument;

FIGS. 21 and 22 are elevation views of a further embodiment of an insertable portion of a visualization instrument;

FIGS. 23 and 24 are elevation views of yet another embodiment of an insertable portion of a visualization instrument;

FIGS. 25 to 28 are perspective views of embodiments of distal tip surfaces;

FIGS. 29 and 30 are elevation views of an embodiment of a reusable portion of a visualization instrument;

FIG. 31 is an elevation view of a further embodiment of a visualization instrument;

FIGS. 32 to 35 illustrate embodiments of a visualization instrument comprising a stylet;

FIGS. 36 and 37 illustrate portions of the visualization instrument comprising a stylet;

FIGS. 38 and 39 illustrate further embodiments of a visualization instrument of FIG. 35;

FIGS. 40 and 41 are elevation and perspective views of another embodiment of a visualization instrument;

FIGS. 42 and 43 are partial distal and posterior elevation views of the instrument of FIGS. 40 and 41;

FIG. 44 is a lateral elevation view of the instrument of FIGS. 40 and 41;

FIG. 45 is a lateral elevation view of another embodiment of a blade of a visualization instrument;

FIGS. 46 to 52 are partial perspective views of features of the instrument of FIGS. 40 and 41; and

FIGS. 53 and 54 are perspective and exploded views of an imaging system operable with a visualization instrument.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. Although the drawings represent embodiments of the present invention, the drawings are not necessarily to scale and certain features may be exaggerated to better illustrate and explain the embodiments. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate embodiments of the invention in several forms and such exemplification is not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The embodiments of the disclosure discussed below are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings.

A visualization instrument, and a method of using the instrument, are disclosed herein. In one embodiment of the visualization instrument, the visualization instrument comprises a display screen and a display screen support portion removably and electrically coupled to an insertable portion including an imaging system to acquire images of an internal space. Exemplary visualization instruments include endoscopes, laryngoscopes, and stylets. The display screen support portion and the display screen may be integrally constructed and may be reusable or disposable. In various embodiments described below, a unitary component comprising the display screen and the display screen support portion is referred to as a reusable portion denoting that in many instances it is possible, although not necessary, and perhaps desirable for economic reasons, to reuse the display screen and electronic components relating thereto. In one variation thereof, the visualization instrument transfers images to a remote display. In one example thereof, the reusable portion includes a housing received in a proximal cavity of a handle coupled to the insertable portion. The display device is supported by the housing. In one variation thereof, the display device is supported by the housing at a fixed angle, preferably between 10 degrees and 30 degrees, and even more preferably between 12.5 degrees and 25 degrees, measured from a plane parallel to the posterior surface of the proximal end of the insertable portion. In another variation thereof, the display device is hinged to enable a practitioner to adjust the display angle as the visualization instrument is inserted into the patient. An anti-glare coating or layer may be provided on the display surface.

In another embodiment of the visualization instrument, the insertable portion comprises a passageway or guide pathway configured to guide insertion of an elongate tubular component, e.g., an airway device, endotracheal tube and the like, and an imaging assembly disposed on or in the distal end of the insertable portion. The imaging assembly captures images of the patient which are shown with the display device. A distal end of the tubular component may also be visible in the images as the tubular component slides through the guide pathway towards the vocal cords. Illustrative embodiments of the reusable and insertable portions are described with reference to FIGS. 1, 15 to 30, and 40-52.

In yet another embodiment of the visualization instrument, the insertable portion comprises an elongate arm having an imaging assembly disposed in the distal end of the arm. In one example thereof, the elongate arm is coupled to a handle adapted to receive the reusable portion. In one variation of the previous example, the elongate arm forms part of a stylet. Illustrative embodiments of stylets are described with reference to FIGS. 31 to 39. In another variation thereof, the elongate arm and the handle comprise an endoscope.

In a further embodiment of the visualization instrument, an imaging cap is provided. The imaging cap comprises a handle adapted to removably receive the reusable portion and a camera to enable a user to capture external images. Additional data acquisition sensors may be coupled to the reusable portion or the imaging cap. An illustrative embodiment of the imaging cap and the sensors is described below with reference to FIG. 14. It should be understood that in any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the reusable portion may be adapted to removably receive the handle instead of the handle being adapted to removably receive the reusable portion.

In an embodiment of a visualization system disclosed herein, the visualization instruments described above are adapted to transmit images to a remote device. Exemplary embodiments of systems adapted to transmit images from the reusable portion to the remote device are described below with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13.

Advantageously, the imaging assembly may be configured to be produced at a low cost to enable the insertable portion to function as a single-use disposable device. In one embodiment, the imaging assembly comprises a support structure or camera barrel supporting a camera integrated circuit (IC), camera, or camera-chip, an illumination device, and lenses. The imaging assembly may be inserted into a cavity located in the distal end of the insertable portion. The imaging assembly may comprise a retention device, e.g., a pin, detent, resilient elastomeric filler, screw or any other fixation device configured to securely couple the imaging assembly to the distal cavity. Exemplary embodiments of imaging assemblies are described below with reference to FIGS. 2 to 10, 53 and 54.

Several defogging features may be provided to prevent fogging of the imaging assembly. In one embodiment, the distal surface of the most distally located lens is coated to reduce or eliminate fogging. In one example thereof, an anti-fog coating is applied to one side of a substrate and an adhesive coating is applied to the other side of the substrate. The adhesively coated side is then adhered to the distal lens surface to attach the anti-fog coating to the lens. The substrate may comprise any known combination of polymers extruded in clear thin film form. Exemplary polymers include polycarbonate, polyester based polymers, polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, and other transparent polymers. A removable backing may be applied to the adhesively coated thin film to facilitate processing. The backing is then removed to expose the adhesive before application of the substrate to the lens surface. In another example, a cover plate seals the cavity and prevents lens fogging. In one variation thereof, the cover plate includes an anti-fog layer or coating on its external surface. The insertable portion may be packaged with a swab comprising H₂O₂ or other antifog coating agents, such that the swab wipes the lens when the insertable portion is withdrawn from the packaging. For example, the packaging may comprise a polymeric strip with a swab attached thereto. Alternatively, the adhesively and anti-fog coated substrate may be adhered to the cover plate. In a further example, defogging is achieved by coupling a heating element to the distal lens or to the cover plate. In one variation thereof, the heating element is coupled to the power leads of an illumination device, which in one embodiment is a white light emitting diode (LED), which is driven above its nominal illumination power level to generate heat with the excess power. In another variation, an LED conducting 150 milliamps coupled to a thermal element heats the distal lens to 45 degrees Celsius in about one minute. Advantageously, powering the illumination device and the heating element from the same power conductors reduces costs by eliminating additional connectors.

A commercially available camera, such as a camera used in cellular phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs), comprises an image sensor and electronic components configured to convert pixel data captured by the image sensor to image data, e.g., digital images, and to output streams of digital images in a standard format. Image sensors may comprise CCD, CMOS sensors with active or passive pixels, or other photo sensors well known in the art. Operational signals are provided to the image sensor to control its operation. Advantageously, the cost of the disposable portion is reduced further by locating the components for providing the operational signals in the reusable portion. In one embodiment, a display driver configured to receive the standard image stream and drive the display device accordingly, also comprises the components necessary to control the camera. In one example thereof, the input/output signals are provided by signal conductors, e.g., a multi-conductor flexible ribbon. In another example thereof, a control component is provided intermediate the camera and the display driver to transform the standard image stream into a differently structured image stream conforming to the size of the display device and/or transforming the standard image stream to a different format corresponding to the format required by the display driver. In a further example thereof, the operational circuits are integrated with the camera, which is configured to output a preconfigured image stream upon the application of power, and which is usable directly by the display device. In yet another example, control components supported by the reusable portion housing provide control signals to the camera to define the size of the images output by the camera. In a further example, the image stream output by the camera is transmitted wirelessly by a wireless transmitter located in the insertion portion. In yet a further example, the wireless transmitter is integrated with the camera. In a variation thereof, the wireless transmitter is positioned in the proximal end of the insertable portion or in the distal cavity. In one example, the camera forms a digital image stream using radiation having wavelengths ranging between 10 nanometers and 14,000 nanometers. The wavelengths include the visible light, ultraviolet, and infrared spectrums. In one variation, the camera is an infrared camera. In another variation, the camera is an ultraviolet light camera. In another variation, the camera is a visible light camera.

While the embodiments of the disclosure are applicable in medical and non-medical applications, exemplary features of visualization instruments will be described below with reference to medical instruments such as laryngoscopes and stylets although the invention is not limited to medical applications and instruments.

An embodiment of a visualization instrument is described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. FIG. 1 is a plan view of an intubation instrument 10 comprising a reusable portion 12 having a display device 110 pivotally coupled via a hinge 22 to a housing 108 and a blade 14. Blade 14 comprises a handle 30 in a proximal end thereof spaced apart from an insertable portion located at a distal end. An imaging assembly, illustratively imaging assembly 100, is located at the distal end. In the present embodiment, the term blade denotes a single part integrally combining handle 30 and an insertable portion defined by a plurality of walls as described below. In a variation thereof, the handle and the insertable portion are distinct parts that are removably attachable. Display device 110 includes a viewing screen 112. Hinge 22 may comprise a friction hinge or may include an adjustment knob to lock display device 110 in a desired position. Handle 30 comprises a proximal cavity 32 for receiving housing 108 and coupling reusable portion 12 to blade 14. The insertable portion of blade 14 comprises an elongate passageway, illustratively passageway 36, designed to guide insertion of a catheter, intubation tube and the like (not shown) into the larynx of a patient. Housing 108 includes batteries and electronic circuits, described in detail with reference to FIG. 11, to receive image signals from imaging assembly 100 via a conductor 102 which comprises a plurality of signal conductors and may comprise power and control conductors as well. In an alternative embodiment, conductor 102 may be at least partially replaced with a wireless transmitter and receiver coupling imaging assembly 100 and housing 108. Housing 108 may comprise a control component 106 and a connector 104 adapted to couple with a connector 105 of blade 14 to transfer images thereto. Throughout the figures reference is made to imaging assembly 100 for exemplary purposes. Unless stated differently below, reference to imaging assembly 100 is representative and non-limiting. Any one of imaging assemblies 300, 350, 380, 400 and variations thereof, may be used instead.

Passageway 36 is defined by the interior surfaces of a medial wall 44, an anterior wall 34, a posterior wall 24, and a lateral wall 50 which in this embodiment comprises a wall portion 54. Each wall has an interior surface which is the surface adjacent to passageway 36. A surface 42 is the interior surface of medial wall 44. Surfaces 38 and 40 are the external surfaces of anterior wall 34 and posterior wall 24, respectively. In other embodiments wall 50 may extend uninterrupted from the proximal to the distal end of blade 14 or may be configured with more or fewer wall portions. Passageway 36 may have a cross-section designed to be operable with endotracheal tubes having internal diameters ranging from 2.0 to 10.0 mm, and more preferably between 5.0 and 8.0 mm. Surfaces 38 and 40 define the anterior and posterior surfaces, respectively, of blade 14. Wall 50 may also include a wall portion 56 configured to confine the volume of passageway 36 further than as confined by wall portion 54. A distal tip 46 extends wall 34 beyond the end of medial wall 44 and comprises a surface 70 which is configured to contact the patient to move the epiglottis and expose the vocal cords.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional perspective view of imaging assembly 100. Imaging assembly 100 comprises a plurality of lenses supported by a camera barrel 200. A heating element 230 supports an illumination device 220 which, as shown, comprises an LED powered by connectors 216 and 218. The LED may be over-driven to provide power in excess of that which is necessary to produce the maximum illumination output of the device. The excess power generates heat which is transferred to heating element 230 and a distal lens 210 to reduce fogging. Camera barrel 200 also supports a lens 212 and a lens 214. Images corresponding to spaces viewable by distal lens 210 are sensed by a camera 202 which comprises a sensing array and circuitry to output an image stream comprising pixel data. A support prong 236 is provided proximally adjacent to camera 202 to secure under pressure imaging assembly 100 to blade 14.

FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of blade 14. As shown, the distal end of blade 14 comprises passageway 36 on one side of medial wall 44 and imaging assembly 100 inserted in a distal cavity on the opposite side. FIG. 4 illustrates a viewing area 240 oriented perpendicular to distal surface 226 of distal lens 210 with a center line 250 passing through the center of viewing area 240 at the crossing of a medial/lateral (M/L) center line 242 and an anterior/posterior (NP) center line 244 indicating the direction of view (DOV) of camera 202. It is desirable to view the insertion of the endotracheal tube through the vocal cords. Thus, imaging assembly 100 may be angled with respect to medial wall 44 to obtain an angled DOV. In another example, distal lens 210 and/or lenses 212 and 214 are angled with respect to medial wall 44 and/or each other to provide an angled DOV while retaining imaging assembly 100 parallel to medial wall 44. Advantageously, lenses may be angled to enable placing imaging assembly 100 in a smaller cavity thereby reducing the size and cost of blade 14 even further. In a further example, center line 250 and imaging assembly 100 are oriented parallel to surface 70 and between 10 degrees and 25 degrees towards passageway 36 relative to medial wall 44. In the embodiment shown, blade 14 comprises an anterior and a posterior part which may be injection molded and thereafter joined together.

In a further embodiment of a visualization instrument, imaging features are provided on a surface of the insertion portion to indicate its orientation relative to the space viewed by the camera as observed in the images. In one example thereof, the imaging feature is a landmark, illustratively ridge 48. An image object corresponding to ridge 48 is displayed in the image stream and, further, the position and shape of the image object are adjusted to reflect the angular orientation of imaging assembly 100 relative to center line 250. For example, if imaging assembly 100 is oriented at 15 degrees, the image object may be extracted from the image and replaced at a 15 degree offset. In another example thereof, a “landing strip”, scalloped edge, a name or label, an arrow, line or other orientation demarking symbol is provided near ridge 48 which, when viewed in the display device, enable a practitioner to easily determine how to orient intubation instrument 10 to direct the endotracheal tube toward the vocal cords which are visible in the image. In a variation thereof, gages, bar graphs, compasses, and other digitally generated orientation images are provided in the images to indicate the direction of movement of the instrument. The orientation images may be generated by identifying vocal cord landmarks in the image stream, comparing the landmarks to the image object, e.g., the image of ridge 48, and then determining the amount of change required in each axis of motion to align the tube in the passageway with the vocal cords.

FIGS. 5 to 10 illustrate additional embodiments of imaging assemblies. FIGS. 5 and 6 are perspective views of an imaging assembly 300. In many respects imaging assembly 300 is similar to imaging assembly 100. Illumination device 220 is powered by conductors 216 and 218 which pass through electrically insulating rings 222 and 224 which are thermally conductive. A plurality of prongs 304 extend proximally from a camera barrel 306. In this embodiment, a circuit board including camera 202 comprises a plurality of notches configured to fit around prongs 304. A pressure plate 302 comprising tabs 308, 310 and 312 is configured to press-fit against prongs 304 to secure camera 202 against camera barrel 306. A tab 316 is positioned between camera barrel 306 and pressure plate 302 and also secured by it. Furthermore, an end tab 320 may optionally be provided and secured by pressure plate 302 to press against the distal cavity to secure imaging assembly 100 in blade 14. In an alternative embodiment, camera 202 fits inside camera barrel 306 and is not supported by pressure plate 302. FIGS. 7 and 8 are cross-sectional perspective and plan views of an imaging assembly 350 comprising a heating element 352 having an orifice 354, and a cover 370 having a distal surface 372. Heating element 352 supports illumination device 220. Camera barrel 200, shown in a cavity 101, also supports camera 202 and is supported by support element 240 between the anterior and the posterior walls of the insertable portion. Heating element 352 heats cover 370 to prevent fogging or to defog. Alternatively or additionally, a surface 372 may be covered with an anti-fog coating or layer. A portion of distal tip 46 is shown in FIG. 8 illustrating a portion of surface 71 in which ridge 48 or another “landing strip” landmark may be provided for viewing by the imaging assembly.

FIGS. 9 and 10 are perspective views of an imaging assembly 380. Imaging assembly 380 comprises a camera barrel 376 which supports distal lens 210, lens 212, lens 214, and camera 202. Camera barrel 376 is similar to camera barrel 306 since both have prongs adapted to receive a pressure plate which may be used to hold the camera in place. Camera barrel 376 is supported by a camera holder 384 which comprises a distal wall 382 and a support structure 386 having a cavity receiving illumination device 220 therein. A distal wall 382 comprises a distal face 390 and an aperture 392. An anti-fog film or layer coated with antifogging composition may be attached to distal face 390. Alternatively, distal wall 382 may comprise a translucent or transparent material without aperture 392, attachable to camera holder 384. At least a portion of camera holder 384 fits within the distal cavity of the insertable portion of the visualization instrument. It may snap-fit into place or be adhesively bonded to ensure retainment therein. Camera holder 384 may be attached to the insertable portion or imaging cap with adhesive, heat stakes, ultrasonic welds, tongue-and-groove arrangement, or any other suitable means. Similar attachment methods may be used to attach an anti-fog cover to the insertable portion or imaging cap.

In a further embodiment of a camera assembly, the prongs extend from the proximal end of camera holder 384 rather than from the proximal end of camera barrel 376. Camera barrel 376 slides into a cavity in the camera holder from the proximal end of the camera holder. Then, the circuit board supporting the camera is attached. The pressure plate is attached last. The pressure plate engages the prongs of the camera holder thereby holding the camera barrel and the camera in place. The camera can be mounted onto the camera barrel in any other manner. Advantageously, in this embodiment the size of the circuit board holding the camera can be reduced since it no longer has to engage the prongs. Of course, the camera can be supported by any other means alternative to a circuit board.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of electronic components of an embodiment of a visualization device. The device comprises an imaging assembly, illustratively imaging assembly 100, disposed in an insertable portion or imaging cap, illustratively a support 400, and electronically coupled to housing 108 by conductor 102 and connectors 104 and 105. A control component 430 comprises one or more circuit boards containing electronic components such as a chip 440, illustratively a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a chip 442, illustratively a NTSC/S-video conversion IC, and optionally a video processing chip and memory, illustratively a video chip 444 and a memory chip 446, respectively. Control component 430 controls the operation of camera 202 by providing operational signals. It also receives a first image stream from camera 202 and converts it to a format suitable for display unit 110. Optionally, control component 430 may convert the first image stream to a format suitable for an external display and for remote transmission. For example, control component 430 may sample images to reduce the amount of information transmitted to a remote device. Of course, if the first image stream is suitable to display device 110, then conversion is not necessary. Control component 430 may provide operational signals for display device 110. Such signal may also be generated by components incorporated in display device 110.

In one example of the present embodiment, the camera supplies a first image stream which is 8-bits wide. The resolution of the camera is 640×480 (VGA) pixels per frame. There are 30 frames per second. The data format is 2 bytes per pixel (i.e., the so called YUV (4:2:2) format). Intensity Y is specified at every pixel, color information U or V every second time. A FPGA is programmed to convert the data stream to a second image stream with a format compatible with the display device 110 which comprises an OLED display. In an alternative embodiment, the camera data is provided to the video processing chip, and the video processing chip, after adding information such as colors, symbols or other information, outputs a video stream to the FPGA for the FPGA to convert to the VGA format. The display resolution is 320×240 (QVGA) pixels per frame, 30 frames per second. The data format, however, is RGB (6, 6, 6). This format uses a 6-bit value for red, a 6-bit value for green, and a 6-bit value for blue. There are specific well known equations for conversion from the YUV color space to the RGB color space. The FPGA implements this conversion. It also performs the conversion (e.g. dropping every second pixel) to convert from VGA to QVGA resolution. The FPGA also provides signals for writing the converted data stream into the OLED display's memory/buffer. The FPGA also sends the camera data to the NTSC/S-video conversion chip. The video chip having the video processor is capable of accepting the VGA, YUV format almost directly. The FPGA provides the necessary operational signals to load the video chip's memory. In a variation thereof, the FPGA also verifies the identity of the camera against a database of approved cameras. The FPGA extracts camera information from the camera, for example a built-in camera ID or a programmable camera ID, and checks the identity against an approved list which is periodically updated. If the camera identification is not on the approved list, the FPGA does not convert the first image stream or, optionally, inserts a warning into the second image stream to alert a practitioner that the insertable portion is not an approved device. Approval may be desirable to ensure the insertable portion meets quality specifications.

A program and data structures are embedded in the memory. The program comprises a plurality of processing sequences operable by the processor to interact with data structures containing data. Data may include parameters such as video instructions, security feature instructions, landmark patterns and the like. The reusable portion may comprise temperature and humidity sensors, and the data may thus include status information, e.g., battery charge level and number of uses, and environmental information, e.g. temperature and humidity levels. Such data may be displayed by the display device or transmitted to a remote device to assist the practitioner. Suitable alarm functions may be implemented if the environmental or battery information falls outside predetermined ranges.

In one embodiment of a visualization instrument, a first processing sequence examines the first image stream and identifies a plurality of landmarks corresponding to features of the internal space and orientation features on the insertable portion. Another processing sequence transforms the first image stream by coloring the space landmarks. A third processing sequence transforms the first image stream by coloring the orientation features. In one example, the orientation feature is a viewable marking in the distal surface of distal tip 46 or an internal surface of wall 34 and the space landmark corresponds to the shape of the vocal cords. The first image stream is thus transformed to enhance the practitioner's ability to align the intubation instrument with the vocal cords.

In another embodiment of a visualization instrument, power saving features are provided to extend the battery life of the reusable portion of the visualization instrument. Power is consumed by illumination, image display, image stream generation, and conversion of the image stream from the image sensor to the display device. In one example thereof, the reusable portion disables the display device if it detects the absence of the camera (a disengaged period). Enablement of the display device during disengaged periods may cause video display noise and frozen images which are prevented if the display is disabled during those periods.

In another example, the display device is also disabled during monitoring periods and automatically enabled if monitoring generates an alert, e.g., low battery, defective connection, high humidity and the like. In a monitoring period a practitioner may also manually enable the display device to request information. Alternatively, an inactive mode may be set which disables monitoring and thereby also disables the display device. In a variation thereof, the monitoring or the inactive mode may be determined based on the engagement or disengagement of the imaging cap or the insertable portion. The camera may be disabled during the monitoring and inactive periods. Advantageously, enabling the camera only under predetermined conditions, including engagement, not only saves power, but also minimizes the damage that may be caused by hot-swapping the reusable and insertable portions. Table 1 summarizes a multiplicity of operating modes of the viewing instrument based upon the state of its components as described above. However, the modes described herein are exemplary, and additional or alternative criteria may be used to determine the same or more operating modes.

TABLE 1 Display Control MODE Camera device component Active Enabled Enabled Enabled Sleep Disabled Disabled Enabled Monitoring Disabled Disabled Enabled Inactive Disabled Disabled Disabled

In another example, the visualization instrument, either or both the reusable and insertable portions, comprise a motion sensor. Exemplary motion sensors include micro-electromechanical sensors (MEMS), e.g., inertial sensors, gyroscopes, accelerometers, rate sensors, and inclinometers, configured to detect absence of motion. If absence of motion during a predetermined time period is detected, all functions except motion detection may be shut down to save power, thus placing the instrument in sleep mode. Once motion is detected during sleep mode, all functions may be re-established without performing start-up routines to quickly enable full functionality.

When the insertable portion is intended to be a single-use disposable unit, potential re-usability of the insertable portion may be of concern to practitioners, hospital administrators and others responsible for patient safety. Advantageously, in one embodiment the reusable portion may disable or not enable the insertable portion if the insertable portion has been previously used, thereby alleviating or eliminating the concern. One exemplary feature for preventing repeated uses is described herein as a single-use fuse. Generally, a single-use fuse feature detects an irreversible change to the insertable portion or the handle. Another exemplary feature is status tracking. Status tracking enables an insertion portion to be used once and then discarded, e.g. a disposable insertion portion, and also enables a permitted number of uses. If the insertable portion is intended to be used a limited number of times, such portion defined herein as “reposable.” Tracking features are used to count the number of uses and to disable the reposable unit after the limit has been reached. Described below are examples of such features. Generally, in a status tracking embodiment, the insertable portion comprises an identification feature to track the number of uses. The reusable portion or the blade can be configured to detect the identification feature. The reusable portion or an associated database and processing system can track uses. In a further example, reusable blades and insertion portions can be used with multiple reusable portions so long as the use limit has not been reached. The program may indicate the status of the insertable portion or the blade with the display device. The identification information may be encrypted to prevent tampering. An anti-tampering integrated circuit may be coupled to the conductor in the insertable portion.

Additional variations of single-use fuses are described below. In one variation thereof, a tab is provided which is deformed, e.g., broken, when the insertable portion is coupled to the reusable portion or when it is disengaged. The reusable portion detects the broken tab when an attempt is made to re-use the insertable portion. For example, the housing may contain an angled protrusion which enables a tab in the proximal cavity of the handle to pass over it. When the insertable portion is disengaged, the angled protrusion tears the tab. Upon re-engagement, the reusable portion detects the deformed tab. Exemplary detectors include limit switches, optical sensors, pressure sensors, and the like. An alterable mechanical key/slot may be used as well.

In another variation thereof, a film or coating that changes color after being exposed to the environment is provided in or on the insertable portion or the blade. If the color change is irreversible, for example by an irreversible chemical reaction, UV activated cross-linking of polymers and the like, then the feature is a single-use feature. However, the feature may be a status tracking feature if the color change is reversible. Upon detection of the color change to a predetermined color, or absence of a predetermined color, software may disable the insertable portion or changes its status. The color may be detected with a detector in the housing or in the first image stream. Environmental variables include, without limitation, air, moisture, e.g. saliva, pressure, e.g. touch or heat, and other suitable variables. Sensors may be provided in the insertable portion to detect the environmental variables. For example, MEMS IC's may be provided on the external surfaces of the insertable portion. The environmental variable may have to be maintained in the changed state for a predetermined amount of time. For example, temperature may have to be greater than 75 degrees for one minute to trigger the status change.

Additional variations of status tracking features are described below. In one variation, the insertable portion is encoded by an identification component such as an electronic identifier (ID) or a unique feature detectable in the first image stream. Electronic ID features may comprise, without limitation, an RFID passive or active transmitter, a camera ID, a programmable ID located in an IC in the insertable portion, and the like. Upon engagement, the reusable portion detects the identification component, determines the status, and activates the insertable portion if the status indicates first use or reposable use less than the prescribed limit.

In another variation, the distally-facing surface of the glottis-engaging protrusion located at the distal end of the insertable portion is encoded with a pattern viewable by the image sensor. The software detects the pattern in the image stream. The pattern may comprise holographic keys molded or engraved in the distally-facing surface and may be designed to change during use so that a subsequent use may be detected.

In a further variation, the identification component comprises a physical mark in the insertable portion which is sensed by the reusable portion to determine first-use or re-use. Exemplary identification components include barcodes, luminescence marks, color keys, holographic keys, magnetic keys, and the like. Sensors adapted to sense corresponding physical marks include microbarcode readers having high magnification objectives to enable minimization of the size of the physical mark, optical sensors and/or detectors, optical sensors or detectors sensitive to holographic diffraction patterns, Hall effect sensors, pressure sensors or detectors, contact switches, and other suitable sensors. Combinations of physical marks are also envisioned, such as a key/slot combined with magnetic or optical marks. Advantageously, the identification component may also identify the type, make and model of the insertable portion, display, and/or record that information, including date and GPS stamp, to a second image stream produced for forensic use. In one example, the control component adds the forensic information to the first image stream to generate the second image stream. In another example, the forensic data is stored and transmitted separately from the image stream.

In another embodiment of the visualization instrument, fluid management lumens are provided. In one example thereof, the insertable portion includes a lumen for providing or withdrawing fluids to or from the patient. In one variation thereof, the lumen is molded opposite the guide pathway. In another variation, a plurality of small channels are included in the molded parts of the insertable portion with distal apertures located around the imaging assembly so as to not increase the size of the insertable portion. The lumen or the channels are connected to external tubes to transfer fluids, e.g. medications or bodily fluids, therethrough to and/or from an external fluid reservoir. Exemplary fluids provided to the patient include liquids, air, and gases.

In yet another embodiment of the visualization instrument, comfort features are provided. In one example thereof, the handle comprises soft material to enhance grasping comfort. In another example, the insertion portion comprises a resilient component to reduce pressure on the teeth of the patient. In a further example thereof, a blade comprises a first material which imparts structure and rigidity to the insertable portion and a second material coupled to the first material to provide a soft and resilient feel. In one variation, the second material extends, at least partially, over the surface of the handle. In another variation, the second material is textured to increase grasping comfort. In another example, sensors are placed beneath the second material to detect pressure and trigger status changes. For example, a thin layer of elastomeric material, e.g., about 1 mm thick, may be provided over surface 40 and extend to the posterior side of handle 30. The second material may also extend over the surface of wall 50. The second material may be adhesively secured to the first material. The first material has a first modulus and the second material has a second modulus which is lower than the first modulus. In a further example, walls 34 and 44 comprise the first material and wall portion 54 comprises the second material. Advantageously, this embodiment provides flexibility to wall portion 54 which facilitates removal of the endotracheal tube from passageway 36.

Exemplary visualization systems are described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13. Represented therein are visualization instruments, illustratively intubation instruments 460 and 480, a local processing system, illustratively computer 462, and remote processing systems, illustratively computer 476 and portable device 488. Portable device 488 may comprise a PDA such as a BLACKBERRY™, IPOD™ and portable phone with viewable screen 490. By local and remote processing systems it is meant devices capable of performing programmed instructions accessible in a storage device such as memory, compact disk and the like. By remote processing system it is meant a processing system which is not necessary to generate images with the visualization device but which is provided to view images obtained with the visualization device. The remote processing system may be located in the same room with the visualization instrument, in a different room in the same locality, or in a different locality, e.g., in a different city. FIG. 12 illustrates a system in which a visualization device directly transmits video images electronically to computer 462. The visualization device may transmit through hardwired or wireless communication links. A wireless signal 464 is illustrated. Additionally, the communication link may comprise a physical connector, BLUETOOTH™ device, cellular modem, IR or other communication link. Computer 462 may re-transmit the video images through a modem/router 470 to the internet, represented by a cloud 472, and thereafter to a modem/router 474 and remote computer 476. In an alternative embodiment of a visualization system, FIG. 13 illustrates a visualization device transmitting video images to a communications satellite 484 for retransmission to a processing system 488. Signals 482 and 486 are cellular signals.

The systems depicted in FIGS. 12 and 13 are exemplary embodiments of more general systems. For example, signal 464 may be received by modem/router 470 without a local processing system. Analogously, intubation device 480 may transmit wirelessly to a local processing system and the local processing system may use cellular communications to reach a remote processing system. A local processing system advantageously enables use of low power wireless transmission to save the power of the intubation device. In yet another embodiment, the reusable portion transmits an image stream to a cellular phone, the cellular phone transmits the image stream to the remote computer, the remote computer receives the image stream, receives input from a remote practitioner, and transmits the same back to the cellular phone, and the cellular phone, the visualization instrument, either, or both, provides the feedback to the local practitioner. Commonly known cellular phones and PDAs comprise all the necessary elements such as displays, microphones, keyboards, and communications components to simultaneously display images and transmit text or audio signals. Advantageously, the remote two-directional link between the visualization instrument and the remote device, whether a computer, cellular phone or the like, may be used for teaching and forensic purposes in addition to providing feedback to the practitioner performing the intubation.

Remote feedback enables a practitioner observing remotely to provide suggestions and other information to the local practitioner. For example, a medical technician may perform the intubation in a battlefield or accident scene as directed by a physician at a hospital. The remote feedback may be text, image, audio or any other type of feedback. Visual feedback may be provided in the display device through the electronic communication link between the visualization device and the local computer. The local computer or the reusable portion may also include speakers to aurally communicate the remote feedback to the practitioner. In one example of the present embodiment, the reusable portion or the local computer provides feedback to the practitioner, the source of the feedback being generated with the remote processing system. Images generated with visualization device may be viewed by a practitioner in the display device of the reusable portion, and in the local and remote processing systems simultaneously. The images displayed by each device may be the same or different. Local computer 462 may incorporate display features suitable to local use while remote computer 476 or portable device 488 may incorporate features suitable for remote use or compatible with their processing capabilities.

In another example, the communication systems depicted in FIGS. 12 and 13 are leveraged with the addition of another component of a visualization system, illustratively imaging cap 492, comprising imaging assembly 100, illustrated in FIG. 14. In the field, a medical technician may carry reusable portion 12, blade 14, and imaging cap 492. After intubating the patient, the medical technician may remove blade 14 and replace it with imaging cap 492 with which he/she can then scan the patient to enable remote viewing of the patient's wounds. A multisensor adapter is also provided, illustratively multisensory adapter 494 having sensors S1, S2 and S3, which may be connected to a port of reusable portion 12 or a communications port provided in imaging cap 492. Sensors S1, S2 and S3 may comprise, for example, a temperature sensor, a blood pressure sensor, and a cardiac rhythm sensor. Either reusable portion 12 or imaging cap 492 may comprise processing capabilities to sample sensor signals which are then transmitted to the local or remote processing system. Of course, the sensor signals may also be processed by the reusable portion 12 which then display indications corresponding to the sensor signals such as blood pressure alarms and the like.

In a further example of a visualization system, the local computer collects patient information and transmits the information to the reusable portion. The reusable portion displays on-screen indicators in the display device to alert the practitioner without requiring the practitioner to look away to receive the same information. On-screen information may include vital signs, CO₂ levels in the air exhaled by the patient, temperature, oxygen saturation, pulse, blood pressure and any other patient vital signs. On-screen information may also include corresponding indicators such as alarms, color-coded thresholds indicating that the vital signs are approaching concerning levels, and alarms/indicators corresponding to the performance of equipment such as ventilators. In one variation thereof, the reusable portion displays on-screen information and indicators generated by the reusable portion. Such information may include parameters extracted from the first image stream, indicators from comparisons of landmarks in the first image stream to the expected location of the landmarks relative to the insertable portion, and other data which the reusable portion may collect with sensors such as those attached to the communications port.

The visualization system is well suited for emergency, rescue and military operations. In a further embodiment of the visualization system, communications gear typically used in such operations are provided with a cradle in which the reusable portion is stored. The cradle comprises a charging housing to re-charge batteries in the reusable portion. The cradle may comprise UV lights to sterilize the reusable portion, since the reusable portion may be used several times before the rescue team or military unit returns to base. Due to the availability of power and telecommunications gear, the reusable portion can be designed to communicate locally only and thereby its size and weight may be minimized. The cradle may also sterilize a reposable portion. Of course, the use of such cradles is not limited to rescue and military operations. Cradles may be used in any environment in which the reusable portion can be used.

Another embodiment of a visualization instrument is described below with reference to FIGS. 15 to 18 wherein views of an intubation instrument denoted by the numeral 500 are described. Intubation instrument 500 comprises reusable portion 12 having display device 110 pivotably coupled via hinge 22 to housing 108 and blade 514 having handle 30 in a proximal end spaced apart from a distal end having distal cavity 568 in which imaging assembly 100 is located. Blade 514 comprises passageway 536 which is designed to guide insertion of a catheter into the larynx of a patient. Passageway 536 is defined by interior surface 542 of medial wall 44 and interior surface 538 of anterior wall 534. Blade 514 further comprises atraumatic distal tip 546 having surface 570 and protrusion 552 disposed across its distal edge 554 (shown in FIG. 18). By atraumatic it is meant a feature without surfaces generally known to cause trauma such as sharp edges and tightly radiused protrusions. Distal tip 546 functions similarly to distal tip 46. Edges 556 and 558 are angled so that distal edge 554 is narrower than the width of the insertable portion. Of course, the width of the insertable portion can equal the width of distal edge 554 in which case edges 556 and 558 will coextend with walls 534 and 560. Surface 570 may comprise any smooth surface or any textured surface such as any one of surfaces 700, 710, 730 or 740 (shown in FIGS. 25 to 28). Atraumatic wall portion 550 is also included to reduce the sensory effect caused by blade 514 as it is moved laterally to displace the tongue of the patient. Wall portion 550 partially extends wall 560 along the edge of distal tip 546. Medial wall 44 defines one side of the distal cavity. On the opposite side, a distal cavity wall may extend past the end of the distal cavity towards and until it reaches distal tip 546. The portion of the wall opposite medial wall 44 which extends beyond the opening of the distal cavity is denoted by numeral 550. Wall portion 550 may extend from posterior surface 40 or any point intermediate posterior surface 40 and interior wall 538 as shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 (see wall portions 550A and 550B). Distal tip 546 may include the protrusion denoted by numeral 552 which is provided to reduce trauma.

In a further embodiment of an intubation instrument, passageway 536 is partially constrained at the distal end of the insertable portion by an extension portion of posterior wall 24 such that an internal surface of the extension portion of posterior wall 24 faces interior surface 538. The extension portion may be provided integrally with wall 24, for example as a single extruded part, or may be attached to the insertable portion, for example by providing a layer that can be adhesively bonded to surface 40 of wall 24. The extension portion may comprise an elastomeric composition, as described above, which resiliently allows removal of the insertable portion after an endotracheal tube is inserted through the passageway into the larynx of the patient. The shape and proportions of the extension portion may be similar to those of wall 54 shown in FIG. 1. However, as stated herein and unlike wall 54, the extension portion extends parallel from wall 24 and not perpendicularly to it (i.e., does not extend as in FIG. 1). The extension portion, medial wall 44, and anterior wall 34 form a C-channel coextensive with the distal portion of passageway 36.

FIGS. 17 to 20 illustrate various adaptations of distal tip 546 having surface 570 (shown in FIG. 15). Surface 570 is substantially flat. On the longitudinal borders, next to edges 556 and 558, the surface is concave to increase the flexural strength of distal tips 46 and 546. In one example, the lateral borders of surface 570 are curved sufficiently to increase flexural strength by about 10%. Flexural strength is further increased by the addition of ridge 48. Flexural strength means the ability of the distal tip to withstand a force applied to surface 570 without bending. Flexural strength is desirable to resist the force applied by the patient's glottis as the instrument is used to displace the glottis. Of course, the actual amount of curvature needed to achieve a desired flexural strength is dependent on the thickness of distal tip 546 and its composition. In another example, shown in FIG. 18, the lateral edges of distal tip 546, denoted by numerals 556 and 558, are angled with respect to the center line of blade 514 so as to reduce the possibility of causing a traumatic experience for the patient. The angles are sufficient to reduce the length of edge 554 to the width of an average glottis of an average patient. The width of edge 554 may be wider in the case of devices made for use with adult patients and narrower for devices made for use with infants. Wall portions 550A and 550B in FIGS. 19 and 20 show that the wall height may vary to form a shallow or steep angle with reference to surface 40. In a further example, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, wall 550 reaches surface 40 thereby minimizing any edge effects which the patient might detect. The height of walls 550, 550A and 550B is a result of a compromise between the desire to reduce trauma, increase flexural strength and increase the field of view of insertable portion 514.

A number of configurations are described herein which may be provided to facilitate removal of the intubation tube. FIGS. 21 and 22 are elevation views of an exemplary blade, denoted by numeral 600. Blade 600 is similar to blade 14 except that the anterior wall of passageway 36 comprises wall portions 604 and 610 rather than a continuous wall 34. Wall portions 602 and 54 comprise the lateral wall of passageway 36. Distal cavity 101 is shown opposite passageway 36. Similarly, FIGS. 23 and 24 are elevation views of another exemplary blade, denoted by numeral 640, comprising an anterior wall including wall portion 654 rather than a continuous wall 34. Wall portions 644 and 54 comprise the lateral wall of passageway 36.

The cross-sectional area of passageway 36 may be uniform or may vary. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of passageway 36 is smaller at the distal end of the insertable portion than at its proximal end. One or both of walls 24 and 54, or portions thereof, may be formed at least in part of a composition comprising resilient material, e.g., thermoset or thermoplastic elastomeric material, buta-N (Nitrile) (NBR), EPDM, Silicone, Neoprene, block copolymers (SIS, SBS, SEBS, SEPS), etc., configured to enable the smaller cross-sectional area to expand when a tube is introduced through passageway 36 having a diameter which is larger than the cross-sectional area. Advantageously, a resilient distal cross-sectional area enables the insertion portion to snugly receive tubes of different diameters which are pressed against the anterior wall by the resilient material and are thereby placed by the resilient material adjacent to distal tip 46. In an alternative embodiment, a resilient tab is positioned in the interior surface of the posterior wall and/or on the interior surface of the lateral wall, at the distal end of the insertion portion. The resilient tab is designed to push the endotracheal tube passing through passageway 36 towards distal tip 46 regardless of the tube diameter. Thus, even when the tube diameter is substantially smaller than the cross-sectional area of the passageway, the tab(s) push(es) the endotracheal tube into the proper position for insertion through the vocal cords.

FIGS. 25 to 28 illustrate exemplary distal tips 700, 710, 730 and 740 exhibiting textured surfaces. The textured surfaces, and any variation thereof, may be applied to any of the anterior surfaces disclosed herein including surfaces 70 and 570. Textured surfaces may exhibit a regulated pattern, as shown in FIGS. 25-28, and may exhibit an unregulated, or random, pattern. The regulated pattern may be longitudinally aligned, as exemplified by FIG. 25, or transversely aligned, as exemplified by FIG. 27. Exemplary textured surfaces include roughness, bumps, ridges, protrusions or irregularities which have sufficiently pronounced three-dimensional characteristics so as to be visible without the aid of optical devices and to be distinguishable by touch. Since smooth surfaces are plainly known as surfaces free from roughness, bumps, ridges or irregularities, textured surfaces are by definition unsmooth even though the tactile impression they produce is not necessarily unpleasant or traumatic. FIG. 25 depicts distal tip 700 comprising a plurality of elongate ridges, illustratively ridges 702, protruding therefrom. Ridges 702 provided distal tip 700 with a surface that has two coefficients of friction depending on the measurement direction. In the longitudinal direction, the coefficient of friction may be lower than the coefficient of friction measured in a direction perpendicular to ridges 702. Advantageously, two coefficients of friction may facilitate motion in the longitudinal direction of distal tip 700 against the patient's glottis and prevent lateral motion or displacement of the glottis. FIG. 26 is similarly designed and depicts distal tip 710 comprising a plurality of protrusions 722 designed to calibrate the tension between ridges 702 and the glottis when the tip pushes against the glottis. Ridges 702 and protrusions 722 may be sized and configured to produce a desired sensation in the patient. The height, shape, and cross-sectional area of protrusions 722, as well as the separation between contiguous protrusions, may be varied. As with distal tip 700, two coefficients of friction may be obtained and protrusions 722 may be utilized to control the difference between them. FIG. 27 depicts distal tip 730 comprising a plurality of elongate ridges 732 protruding therefrom disposed perpendicularly to wall 44. The ridges are configured to prevent longitudinal displacement of the glottis after distal tip 730 contacts the glottis. Protrusions may be provided between the ridges similarly as those provided in FIG. 26. Advantageously, the ridges may enable displacement of the glottis with application of less force than would be required if the ridges were not present. FIG. 28 depicts distal tip 740 comprising a regulated pattern exemplified by pattern 742 comprising a multitude of four-sided protrusions which may provide the benefits disclosed hereinabove with respect to contact with a patient's glottis. In a variation thereof, a criss-cross pattern of ridges defines four-sided cavities. The angles between the sides, and the lengths of the sides, of the four-sided protrusions or cavities, as the case might be, are varied to form at least one of squares, rectangles and diamonds. In a further variation thereof, the protrusions or cavities are oval or round. Also shown is distal tip 746 extending from distal tip 46 to provide an atraumatic edge, illustratively edge 744, thereto. The atraumatic protrusion is also shown in FIGS. 15 to 17 as protrusion 552.

FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate an embodiment of a reusable portion, denoted by numeral 800, with a display device provided at a fixed angle. Reusable portion 800 comprises a housing 802 and a neck 804 coupling housing 802 to viewable screen 112. A plurality of push-buttons 806 is provided to control the intubation instrument. Exemplary push-buttons are provided to activate the camera, change display characteristics and wirelessly transmit an image stream or other data to an external device. Line 808 depicts a plane parallel to housing 802 and line 810 depicts the fixed angle at which viewable screen 112 is oriented relative to line 808. In most intubations, the practitioner stands proximally to the head of the patient facing towards the patient's feet. As the intubation device is inserted into the patient, viewable screen 112 faces the practitioner so that the practitioner may look at the display and into the oral cavity of the patient by merely shifting his/her gaze.

FIG. 31 is a plan view of another visualization instrument, denoted by numeral 900. Intubation instrument 900 is configured to receive an endotracheal tube over an insertable portion, illustratively stylet 902, which is removably coupled to an adapter 901 configured to connect stylet 902 and housing 108. Adapter 901 comprises a conductor 906 electrically coupling connectors 904 and 905. The diameter of stylet 902 may range between 2 mm and 7 mm, preferably between 3 mm and 6 mm. Stylet 902 may comprise a malleable material adapted to retain a longitudinal shape and facilitate introduction of imaging assembly 100 into the cavity of interest. Additional components may be used with the reusable portion such as a flexible catheter and a catheter having a tip controllable with a steerable mechanism.

FIGS. 32 to 39 illustrate a further embodiment of a visualization instrument, depicted by numeral 1000, comprising a reusable portion 1002 and a stylet 1004. Reusable portion 1002 includes a housing 1008 coupled to a display device 1020 having a viewable screen 1012. Display device 1020 is supported by a support portion 1018. Display device 1020 also includes an illumination device, illustratively LED 1016, suitable for indicating a power-on status or other suitable indications such as alarms. In one example, LED 1016 blinks or flashes to indicate a condition which benefits persons not able to distinguish LED colors. Exemplary conditions include power-on, disablement due to uses exceeding a permitted number of uses, low battery, and other suitable conditions. A power-on button (not shown) may be provided in the side of display device 1020 opposite viewable screen 1012. The power-on button may be covered with resilient material (disclosed in detail further below with reference to FIGS. 46 and 47), e.g. elastomeric polymer or rubber, to seal the power-on button and enhance the ability to clean the reusable portion. Stylet 1004 comprises a handle 1030 defining cavity 1032 configured to receive reusable portion 1002 and stylet arm 1100 which supports imaging assembly 100. In one variation thereof, a silicone gasket comprising magnetic particles, and a magnetically attractive material, e.g. iron or another gasket with magnetic particles, are provided on body portion 1008 and support portion 1018, for example at the joint between body portion 1008 and neck portion 1018, to latch the insertable portion. The magnetic coupling may also form a magnetic interlock circuit which the processor of the reusable portion checks to verify proper insertion of the housing into the insertable portion or imaging cap before enabling use of the camera. In another variation thereof, one of the reusable portion and the insertable portion comprises a mechanical locking feature, e.g. a tab, which makes an audible sound when the two portions are mated together.

Handle 1030 may comprise a textured external surface to enhance grip. Handle 1030 includes connector 1060 adapted to communicatively couple the camera to body portion 1008. A similar connector may be provided in a cradle to charge the reusable portion when not in use. Alternatively or additionally, a cradle may comprise an inductive charger and either of the reusable portion or the insertable portion may comprise a matching induction coil. When the intubation instrument is placed in the cradle, the inductive charger charges the induction coil to recharge the intubation instrument. A least a portion of a wall of handle 1030 may be sufficiently thin to enable the electromagnetic waves emitted by the inductive charger to efficiently pass through the wall. FIG. 33 illustrates reusable portion 1002 inserted into cavity 1032. FIG. 34 illustrates features of display device 1020 such as a communication port cover 1014 underneath which is a communication port and a protrusion 1036 provided as a positive interface feature to indicate the proper orientation of display device 1020 relative to handle 1030. Exemplary communication port receptacles include USB, mini-USB, micro-USB, serial, co-axial, IEEE 1994 format, and any other known connector for any communication standard. Protrusion 1036 matches a notch 1034 located in handle 1030. As disclosed in more detail with reference to FIGS. 49 and 50, in one embodiment of a visualization instrument, the visualization instrument comprises audible engagement features. In one example thereof, protrusion 1036 makes an audible sound when it engages notch 1034 to indicate to a user that handle 1030 and display device 1020 have been properly engaged.

FIGS. 35 and 36 illustrate additional features of handle 1030. In one example, alignment features are provided, illustratively guide channels 1044 and 1046, in the interior surface of the anterior wall of handle 1030 to receive elongate longitudinal rails located in the anterior surface of body portion 1008 and to ensure proper coupling between reusable portion 1002 and handle 1030. Any of a variety of other mechanical keying features may be employed. In another example, the posterior surface of handle 1030 is substantially flat and the anterior surface of handle 1030 (one of which comprises compartment cover 1010) is substantially round or oval to assist the user in determining by touch the orientation of reusable portion 1002 relative to handle 1030. Handle 1030 may be manufactured as two or more injection molded parts which snap together. An optional rotary effector and lever are shown, illustratively rotary thumb switch 1040 and lever 1042, and their functions are described further below with reference to FIG. 38. FIG. 36 illustrates in phantom the location of a connector 1060. Connector 1060 fits into an interface slot (not shown) in reusable portion 1002 which receives connector 1060 to communicatively couple body portion 1008 to handle 1030.

FIG. 37 illustrates the internal side of compartment cover 1010. In use, compartment cover 1010 is positioned to cover an internal compartment, e.g. battery compartment. It has an internal distal surface 1050 connected to a surface 1054. A key latch structure 1052 extends from internal surface 1050 and mates with a mirror image structure provided in body portion 1008 when compartment cover 1010 is secured over the compartment, thereby positively locking compartment cover 1010 in place.

In one example of the present embodiment, stylet 1004 is steerable. FIG. 38 illustrates a variation of a steerable stylet comprising stylet arm 1100 having a shaft 1102 at its proximal end and a flexible shaft 1104 at its distal end. Flexible shaft 1104 may bend relative to shaft 1102 producing a plurality of viewing positions, illustratively positions A, B, and C which are steerable in an arc, illustratively arc 1108. Although a one-dimensional arc is shown, the arc may be formed in any orientation. Consequently, the tip of flexible shaft 1104 is repositionable with three degrees of freedom. Assigning the longitudinal axis of shaft 1102 to be the Z-axis, the tip of flexible shaft 1104 may be rotated anywhere in the X-Y plane. A steering mechanism is provided in stylet handle 1030 and shaft 1102 (not shown) to bend shaft 1104. An exemplary steering mechanism is a gear train or guide wire. The gear train is activated by a rotary thumb switch 1040, comprising a lever 1042, which is provided to enable a user to easily actuate rotary thumb switch 1040 to cause stylet arm 1100 to change the position of its distal end and thereby to change the viewing angle of the camera.

Stylet arm 1100 may be permanently or removably attached to stylet handle 1030. FIG. 39 illustrates an example of a removably attachable stylet arm 1100. An aperture 1070 is provided in stylet handle 1030 to receive a stylet arm connector 1120 having protrusions 1122 and 1124 thereon extending radially outwardly from its surface. Aperture 1070 comprises a longitudinal round aperture, a longitudinally extending slot 1080 provided to receive protrusions 1122 and 1124, and radial slots 1082 and 1084. Stylet arm 1102 further comprises a collar 1110 having a shoulder 1112. Stylet arm connector 1120 penetrates aperture 1070 when protrusions 1122 and 1124 are aligned with slot 1080. When shoulder 1112 engages stylet handle 1030, protrusions 1122 and 1124 are aligned with radial slots 1082 and 1084, respectively. Stylet arm 1100 may then be rotated counter-clockwise to lock stylet arm 1100 with stylet handle 1030 when protrusions 1122 and 1124 enter slots 1082 and 1084. In a further example, a removable sheath envelops the stylet. After use, the stylet sheath is discarded. A new sheath is placed over the stylet to reuse the stylet.

A further embodiment of a visualization instrument is illustrated in FIGS. 40 and 41. The medical visualization instrument is exemplified as a video laryngoscope 1200 comprising a first portion 1201 having a display device 1202, a housing 1370 (shown in FIGS. 49 and 50), and a support portion 1208 coupling display device 1202 to housing 1370. Video laryngoscope 1200 also comprises a blade 1250 having a handle 1256, which has a posterior side 1252 and an anterior side 1253 (shown in FIG. 41), and an insertable portion 1258. Although in use the handle will typically be in a primarily vertical orientation, in the context of the blade parts the terms anterior and posterior refer to one or the opposite sides of the blade. Display device 1202 includes a display screen 1204 surrounded by a frame 1205, and a video output port 1206. In one example, frame 1205 is metallized to dissipate static electricity. In another example, where display device 1202 is backlit, back lighting is disabled to save power until blade 1250 and first portion 1201 are connected. In a further example, display device 1202 is disabled entirely until blade 1250 and first portion 1201 are connected. In one example, a gasket is provided between connecting portions of blade 1250 and first portion 1201 to fluidly seal the connection.

Blade 1250 includes a plurality of guide walls forming a pathway for an endotracheal tube. The guide pathway is defined, at least in part, by an anterior guide surface and a medial guide surface. In one variation thereof, the anterior guide surface, e.g. anterior guide surface 1269, is substantially orthogonal to the medial guide surface e.g. the surface of medial wall 1272 shown in FIG. 41. Orthogonal guide surfaces are also shown in FIG. 45, illustrated by surfaces of anterior wall 1270 and medial wall 1273. In another variation thereof, shown in FIGS. 40 and 41, the guide pathway includes a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion of the guide pathway is defined by anterior guide surface 1269 and the surface of medial wall 1272 shown in FIG. 41. The distal portion of the guide pathway extends from the proximal portion and is further defined by posterior guide surface 1263 and the pathway facing surface of lateral guide wall 1276. An exemplary distal portion of a guide pathway is denoted by numeral 1262. In a further variation, the proximal portion of the guide pathway, measured along a center line of the insertion portion, is shorter than the distal portion. In another variation, the proximal portion length is at most 40% of a distal portion length.

In one example, the medial guide surface includes a transition portion extending through the proximal portion of the guide pathway and a longitudinally aligned portion extending through the distal portion of the guide pathway. In a variation thereof, the transition portion extends from a side of the insertable portion to the longitudinally aligned portion. In another variation thereof, exemplified in FIG. 40, the transition portion extends from a lateral side of the insertable portion to the longitudinally aligned portion. In a further variation thereof, the transition portion rotates from its proximal end to its distal end such that at its distal end it is orthogonal to the anterior guide surface.

Blade 1250 supports the imaging sensor and electronic components to electrically couple the imaging sensor to video display 1202. The imaging sensor may be electronically coupled wirelessly or by electrical conductors embedded in the insertable portion of the blade. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 40-44, blade 1250 includes an electronics pathway defined by medial wall 1272, a posterior electronics pathway wall 1278, a lateral electronics pathway wall 1271, and anterior wall 1270. As best seen in FIG. 42, a distal cavity, denoted by numeral 1300, receives therein an imaging assembly 1400. A tip portion 1280 of blade 1250 extends distally beyond the electronics pathway. An imaging landmark, illustratively elongate protrusion 1284, may be provided in tip portion 1280 to assist the user in detecting the center of blade 1250 in the images viewed by the camera in imaging assembly 1400. An atraumatic tip, exemplified by ridge 1286, may also be provided. As shown in FIG. 41, tip portion 1280 may also include an atraumatic wall portion, illustratively wall portion 1282, which may also comprise any atraumatic wall portion as previously described with reference to FIGS. 15-20. In additional examples, any of the blade embodiments described above and also with reference to FIGS. 3-4 and 15-28 are provided without any one or more of imaging landmarks, atraumatic tips, and atraumatic walls. In a further example, the blade supports an imaging assembly at its distal end and an electronic connector coupling the imaging assembly to the reusable portion is embedded within one of the walls of the insertable portion. For example, the electronic connector can comprise electrical conductors embedded in the medial wall of the blade. In a further example, the electronic connector is bonded to the insertable portion. For example, the connector may comprise a flat ribbon connector and may be bonded to the medial wall.

As described previously, resilient materials may be provided to add functionality to the blade. The exemplary embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 40-44 blade 1250 comprises two components comprising two materials. A first component 1261 comprises the first material and includes the handle and a rigid portion of the insertable portion of blade 1250. The first material imparts structure and rigidity to the blade. A second component 1260 comprises the second material and includes posterior guide wall 1274 and lateral guide wall 1276. The second material provides resiliency and softness relative to the first material. Second component 1260 is bonded to or over-molded onto first component 1261. Any known bonding method, such as adhesive, thermal, ultrasonic, and mechanical may be utilized to bond second component 1260 and first component 1261. In one example, the second material hardness is between 60 and 90 shore A. In a variation thereof, the second material hardness is between 75 and 85 shore A.

In yet another embodiment of a visualization instrument, alignment features are provided to facilitate engagement of the reusable portion and the handle. Exemplary mating alignment features were described with referring to FIG. 35. In a further example, the alignment features comprise mating alignment features which prevent engagement of the reusable portion and the blade unless the reusable portion is properly aligned with the blade. Advantageously, mating alignment features facilitate tactile engagement of the reusable portion and the blade without requiring a user to visually align the two components. A further example of mating alignment features is shown in FIG. 40 comprising a protrusion 1214 extending distally from support portion 1208 and engaging an opening in handle 1256, exemplified by a semi-circular opening 1254, to compel proper orientation of housing 1370 relative to handle 1256. In another example, the locations of the protrusion and the opening are reversed. In yet a further example, the opening comprises internal or external surface indentations, slots, or any other surface modification provided to engage protrusions and thereby indicate proper orientation of first portion 1201 relative to handle 1256. A further exemplary embodiment of mating alignment features is described below with reference to FIGS. 49 and 50. Alignment features may also comprise visual indications such as surface markings. In one example, surface markings comprise orientation or alignment indicia such as lines on the surface of the handle and the reusable portion. In another example, surface markings comprise anterior and posterior colors wherein the reusable portion and the handle exhibit one color on the anterior side and a different color on the posterior side.

In another embodiment of the medical visualization instrument, guide pathway biasing features are provided to facilitate use of multiple endotracheal tube sizes. Generally, the biasing features exert anteriorly directed force on an endotracheal tube as it translates through the guide pathway. As shown in FIGS. 41, 42 and 44, insertable portion 1258 comprises an anterior guide surface 1269 of anterior wall 1270 and a posterior guide surface 1263 of posterior wall 1274 which define an anterior/posterior height. A proximal anterior/posterior height is denoted by numeral 1310 in FIG. 44 where a distal anterior/posterior height is denoted by numeral 1312. In one example, the proximal and distal anterior/posterior heights are substantially the same. In another example, the distal anterior/posterior height is less than the proximal anterior/posterior height. In one variation thereof, the proximal anterior/posterior height is greater than the distal anterior/posterior height by at least 0.5 mm. In one variation thereof, the proximal anterior/posterior height is greater than the distal anterior/posterior height by at least 1.0 mm. The reduction of the proximal anterior/posterior height provides a biasing force on the endotracheal tube, from the posterior side, to ensure the tube exits guide pathway 1262 biased towards the anterior wall. In one variation of the previous example, the biasing force is created by reducing the arc of the posterior guide wall to reduce the distal anterior/posterior height. In another variation, the posterior guide wall and the lateral guide wall are formed of a resilient material adapted to increase the distal anterior/posterior height when an endotracheal tube having sufficiently large diameter forces the posterior guide wall, which in its rest position defines an anterior/posterior height which is smaller than the diameter of the endotracheal tube, to move posteriorly away from the anterior wall. When the endotracheal tube is removed, the resilient posterior guide wall may return to its rest position. As shown in FIG. 40, component 1260 comprises the resilient material. In another example, a resilient bar or ramp protrudes from the posterior guide surface towards the guide pathway to provide the biasing force. Advantageously, a blade having a distal end biasing force as described herein permits use of one blade with any of a plurality of endotracheal tubes having different diameters as the biasing force ensures that, regardless of the diameter, the endotracheal tubes are biased towards the anterior wall as they exit the guide pathway and are thereby directed towards the vocal cords and visible by the camera.

In another embodiment of the disclosure, a visualization instrument is provided. The visualization instrument comprises a reusable portion, a handle portion, an insertable portion, and an imaging assembly. The insertable portion comprises a distal cavity at a distal end thereof and a connector accessible through the distal cavity to electrically and detachably couple the imaging assembly to the insertable portion. In one example thereof, the handle portion and the insertable portion are integrally coupled. In another example thereof, the imaging assembly is connected to the connector prior to use and subsequently disconnected. The insertable portion is then discarded while the imaging assembly may be cleaned and re-used. Advantageously, a reusable imaging assembly reduces the cost of the insertable portion which may be discarded after a single or a limited number of uses.

In another embodiment of the visualization instrument, image alignment features are provided to facilitate visualization of the endotracheal tube. An example of image alignment features is shown in FIG. 43 where posterior guide wall 1274 has a distal edge 1275 disposed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of blade 1250 and posterior electrical pathway wall 1278 has a distal edge 1279 disposed at an angle, defined by axial lines 1290 and 1292 and denoted by numeral 1294, relative to distal edge 1275. Imaging assembly 1400 may be aligned perpendicularly to axial line 1290 to angle the line of sight of imaging assembly 1400 as described above with reference to FIG. 4 to facilitate viewing the displacement of the endotracheal tube towards the vocal cords. In another example, described previously with reference to FIG. 4, lenses in the imaging assembly may be constructed with an angled face to provided an angled view, where the line of sight is directed towards the center line of the blade, while the imaging assembly is positioned parallel to the center line of the blade. In a further example, the distal lens is angled relative to the center line of the imaging assembly to provide an angled view.

In another embodiment of the visualization instrument, a blade without posterior and lateral guide walls is provided. An example of such a blade is shown in FIG. 45 where a lateral view of a blade 1320 is illustrated. Anterior and posterior sides of blade 1320 are denoted by numerals 1324 and 1322. A medial wall is denoted by numeral 1273. Medial wall 1273 is substantially the same as medial wall 1272 except that it is shorter as medial wall 1273 does not extend to support posterior wall 1274. Some surgeons may prefer the additional freedom to control the endotracheal tube (without the lateral and posterior guide walls) provided by blade 1320 as compared to blade 1250.

In a further embodiment of the visualization instrument, rest features are provided which support the reusable portion when the reusable portion rests on a surface. The rest features comprise rest surfaces adapted to stabilize the medical instrument in a rest position. In one example, the rest surface has a coefficient of friction higher than the coefficient of friction of the distal surface of the display device. In one variation of the previous example, the rest surface comprises rubber. In another variation, the rest surface comprises a polymeric material with a coefficient of friction that is higher than the coefficient of friction of the material from which the display device frame is made. In another example, a rest surface extends from the distal surface of the display device. In one variation thereof, a rest surface is parallel to the supporting surface when the reusable portion is decoupled from the handle. In another variation thereof, a rest surface is parallel to the supporting surface when the reusable portion is coupled to the handle. In a further variation thereof, the display device comprises a rest feature having two rest surfaces. One rest surface supports the display device when the handle is coupled to the reusable portion and the other rest surface supports the display device when the handle is not coupled the reusable portion. In a further example, a switch cover is disposed between the rest surface and the screen and the rest surface prevents accidental activation of the switch. An example of a rest surface and switch cover will now be described with reference to FIGS. 41, 46 and 47 where, on its distal side, display device 1202 comprises a rest surface, illustratively rest bar 1210. Rest bar 1210 comprises a material having a coefficient of friction suitable for substantially preventing sliding of the reusable portion on the supporting surface. Exemplary materials include rubber and elastomeric polymers. In another example, the surface of the rest bar is textured to increase friction. For example, texture may comprise lines and bumps. A switch cover, illustratively cover 1212, sealingly covers an electrical switch, illustratively switch 1330 (shown in FIG. 47). Exemplary switches include push-button switches and toggle switches. Switch 1330 may be configured to turn power to the medical visualization instrument on and off. Advantageously, placing a power switch on the distal side of display device 1202 instead of the proximal side permits utilization of a larger portion of the proximal area of display device 1202 for display screen 1204 while providing an ergonomically attractive switch location. Rest bar 1210 is sufficiently thick to prevent accidental actuation of switch 1330 when rest bar 1210 supports display device 1202. In another example, the reusable portion has a rest surface on the distal side of display device 1202, without a rest bar, and the cover is recessed so as to prevent accidental activation of switch 1330. FIG. 46 also shows housing 1370 extending from support portion 1208 which connects housing 1370 and display device 1202.

In yet a further embodiment of the visualization instrument, external communication features are provided. Referring now to FIG. 48, in one example the display device 1202 includes a receptacle 1332 connected internally to electronic circuits configured to provide an image output. The image output may be a serial or parallel signal, and may a digital or analog signal. A connector 1334 extends from a cable 1336. Connector 1334 electronically couples receptacle 1332 to transfer the image output through cable 1336 to a remote device such as a computer, video monitor, or hardware interface configured to further transfer the image output for eventual display at a remote device. In the present example, display device 1202 comprises a cavity sealingly receiving a sealing portion disposed between connector 1334 and cable 1336, illustratively cavity 1333 and sealing portion 1338. Sealing portion 1338 and cavity 1333 are rectangularly shaped. In a variation of the previous example, the sealing portion and the cavity comprise another shape. Exemplary shapes include oval, circular, and square. Advantageously, sealing the connector and the receptacle prevents exposure of cavity 1333 to debris and contaminants and, as a result, display device 1202 may be more easily cleaned or disinfected. A similarly shaped cover without a cable is provided to seal cavity 1333 when it is not desired to provide an image output to a remote device.

Referring now to FIGS. 49 and 50, another example of an alignment feature is shown therein. As described above, the reusable portion comprises a housing insertable into the handle of the medical instrument. FIG. 49 illustrates an exemplary housing, denoted by numeral 1370, having a particular cross-sectional profile designed to easily mate with a corresponding cross-sectional profile of a handle. As shown, housing 1370 has a body 1372 with a generally oval cross-section and comprises an elongate protrusion, illustratively protrusion 1374, extending from the generally oval body 1372 in the longitudinal direction. As shown in FIG. 50, handle 1256 comprises two longitudinally disposed surfaces, embodied in ridges 1360, which together define a slot 1362 configured to receive protrusion 1374. In a variation of the previous example, the longitudinally disposed surfaces are formed by protrusions extending from the internal surface of the handle without forming ridges. For example, slot 1362 may be formed directly on the wall of the handle.

As disclosed in more detail above with reference to FIG. 34, in another embodiment of a visualization instrument, the visualization instrument comprises audible engagement features. In one example thereof, protrusion 1036 makes an audible sound when it engages notch 1034 to indicate to a user that handle 1030 and display device 1020 have been properly engaged. In another example, one or both ridges 1360 shown in FIG. 50 (or channels 1044 and 1446 shown in FIG. 35) comprise an interruption (not shown) adapted to receive a protrusion (not shown) extending from oval body 1372, or any of the above described handle portions, and to make an audible sound when the protrusion is received by the interruption to indicate that housing 1370 and handle 1256 have been properly engaged. In a further example, a protrusion supported by one of the handle and a support element supporting a display device, and a matching recess in the other of the handle and the support element, are configured to generate an audible sound, such as a “click” sound, when the handle and the support element are properly engaged.

Referring now to FIGS. 51 and 52, a housing of a reusable portion is shown therein comprising a battery connection portion 1382 and a battery cover 1380. The housing also comprises a battery cover locking feature. In one example, the locking feature comprises a ridge and a slot. When battery cover 1380 is pressed against battery connection portion 1382 and a longitudinally oriented force is applied, the ridge and the slot mate. In one variation of the previous example, shown in FIG. 52 in a mated position, battery cover 1380 comprises a ridge and battery connection portion 1382 comprises a slot 1384. In another variation thereof, the positions of the slot and the ridge are reversed. In a further variation thereof, the slot and the ridge are located in lateral surfaces of battery connection portion 1382 and battery cover 1380.

FIGS. 53 and 54 are perspective and exploded views of an exemplary embodiment of an imaging assembly, illustratively imaging assembly 1400. Imaging assembly 1400 comprises a distal cover 1402, a camera holder 1404 having an imaging opening 1406 and an illumination opening 1408, a distal lens 1422, a camera barrel 1420, lenses 1424 and 1426, a gasket 1430, a camera 1432, a support board 1434 supporting camera 1432, a cable 1436, and a backing plate 1442 having a pressure component 1444 and a plurality of locking components 1446. Backing plate 1442 presses support board 1434 and lenses 1424 and 1426 in camera barrel 1420. Camera barrel 1420 is press-fit into an opening of camera holder 1404 to hold distal lens 1422 inside camera holder 1404. Gasket 1430 is optional and may be removed. If used, gasket 1430 seals imaging sensor 1432 inside camera barrel 1420 and prevents light from entering camera barrel 1420 and degrading the images. LED 1440 is coupled to camera holder 1404 to illuminate the space before distal cover 1402 through illumination opening 1408. In one variation of the previous example, distal cover 1402 is adhesively bonded to camera holder 1404 using a silicone release application method. Adhesive is provided on a silicone paper. The silicon paper and adhesive are applied to distal cover 1402. The silicone paper is then removed, and the newly exposed side of the adhesive is pressed against camera holder 1404 to secure distal cover 1402 thereto. Advantageously, the silicone release method described herein protects distal lens 1422 from inadvertent spearing of adhesive on its distal surface. The combination of a support housing and an imaging barrel simplifies assembly of the imaging assembly. In a variation of the example described above, only two lenses are used. In another variation thereof, the camera barrel and the camera holder are formed by single-mold inserts which cause the distal lens and second lens to self-align relative to the optical axis of the imaging assembly which simplifies the assembly process and reduces cost by eliminating the need for focusing features. In yet another variation thereof, the imaging assembly comprises a distal lens having a negative meniscus, and a doublet comprised of biconvex and negative meniscus elements. The distal and doublet lenses have aspheric surfaces which, combined with the meniscus and biconvex elements, achieve nearly diffraction limited performance.

Examples of visualization instruments comprising a reusable portion and a handle coupled to an insertable portion in a single piece construction were described above. In a further example of a visualization instrument, the insertable portion and the handle are detachably coupled. Any of the alignment and state features described above with reference to coupling of the handle and the reusable portion may also be applied to coupling of the handle and the insertable portion. In one example, the handle is integrally formed with the housing supporting the video display, and the insertable portion is detachably coupled to the handle. In one variation thereof, the insertable portion comprises walls defining a guide pathway. In another variation thereof, the insertable portion comprises an elongate tubular member.

While the invention has been described as having exemplary designs, the present disclosure may be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the disclosure using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains. 

1. A visualization instrument comprising: a display device; an imaging assembly including a camera and a lens, the camera including an imaging sensor, an imaging support having a distal surface and an optical cavity, the optical cavity defining a cavity opening in the distal surface, the lens and the camera sealed within the optical cavity to keep the optical cavity dry, the camera outputting a digital image stream corresponding to a plurality of views obtained through the lens; a handle portion detachably coupled to the display device; a self-contained energy source supported by one of the handle portion and the display device; and an insertable portion coupled to the handle portion and insertable into the patient, the insertable portion having a distal cavity with a distal opening at a distal end thereof, the imaging assembly received by the distal cavity through the distal opening, the imaging assembly electronically coupled to the display device when the insertable portion is coupled to the handle portion and the handle portion is coupled to the display device to present images corresponding to the plurality of views with the display device.
 2. The visualization instrument of claim 1, wherein the insertable portion further comprises a guide pathway adapted for guiding a tube into a patient, the distal cavity and the guide pathway arranged laterally to each other to reduce an anterior/posterior height of the insertable portion.
 3. The visualization instrument of claim 1, wherein the handle portion and the insertable portion are integrally formed as a single piece blade.
 4. The visualization instrument of claim 1, wherein the insertable portion further comprises an anterior guide surface and a medial guide surface, the anterior guide surface and the medial guide surface defining a guide pathway adapted for guiding a tube into a patient.
 5. The visualization instrument of claim 4, wherein the tube is distinguishable in the digital image stream as the tube passes through a field of view of the lens.
 6. The visualization instrument of claim 4, wherein the guide pathway comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion, the insertable portion further comprising a posterior guide surface opposite the anterior guide surface and a lateral guide surface opposite the medial guide surface, the distal portion of the guide pathway defined by the anterior guide surface, the posterior guide surface, the medial guide surface and the lateral guide surface.
 7. The visualization instrument of claim 6, wherein the proximal portion of the guide pathway is shorter than the distal portion.
 8. The visualization instrument of claim 7, wherein a proximal portion length of the proximal portion of the guide pathway, measured along a center line of the insertion portion, is at most 40% of a distal portion length of the distal portion of the guide pathway.
 9. The visualization instrument of claim 6, wherein the medial guide surface includes a transition portion extending through the proximal portion of the guide pathway and a longitudinally aligned portion extending through the distal portion of the guide pathway, wherein the transition portion extends from a side of the insertable portion to the longitudinally aligned portion.
 10. The visualization instrument of claim 9, wherein the transition portion extends from a lateral side of the insertable portion.
 11. The visualization instrument of claim 1, wherein the insertable portion further comprises an anterior wall and a medial wall, the anterior wall and the medial wall defining a guide pathway adapted for guiding a tube into a patient, the guide pathway adjacent a side of the medial wall and the distal cavity adjacent an opposite side of the medial wall, the anterior wall having a tip portion extending distally beyond the medial wall.
 12. The visualization instrument of claim 11, wherein the tip portion includes a textured surface adapted to engage a tissue of the patient.
 13. The visualization instrument of claim 12, wherein the textured surface includes a plurality of ridges arranged in a regulated pattern.
 14. The visualization instrument of claim 13, wherein the plurality of ridges are longitudinally aligned.
 15. The visualization instrument of claim 11, wherein the textured surface has a first coefficient of friction measured in a first direction and a second coefficient of friction measured in a second direction different from the first direction.
 16. The visualization instrument of claim 11, wherein the tip portion includes one or more flexural support feature.
 17. The visualization instrument of claim 16, wherein the one or more flexural support feature increases a flexural strength of the tip portion by at least 5%.
 18. The visualization instrument of claim 11, wherein the flexural support feature comprises at least one of a longitudinally aligned ridge, a longitudinally aligned wall portion, and a transverse curvature of the tip portion.
 19. The visualization instrument of claim 1, wherein the insertable portion comprises an elongate tubular member.
 20. The visualization instrument of claim 19, wherein the elongate tubular member is malleable.
 21. The visualization instrument of claim 19, wherein the elongate tubular member is steerable, further comprising a steering mechanism supported by the handle portion.
 22. The visualization instrument of claim 1, wherein the imaging assembly is permanently attached to the insertable portion.
 23. The visualization instrument of claim 1, further including an electronic connector affixed to the insertable portion and accessible from the distal cavity, the imaging assembly removably connecting to the connector when it is received by the distal cavity.
 24. The visualization instrument of claim 1, further comprising a translucent cover attached to the distal surface, the translucent cover including an anti-fog coating.
 25. The visualization instrument of claim 1, further comprising a second lens and a camera barrel having a barrel cavity, the lens positioned between the distal surface and the camera barrel when the camera barrel is received by the optical cavity, and the second lens received by the camera barrel and positioned between the camera barrel and the camera.
 26. The visualization instrument of claim 1, further comprising a motion sensor detecting motion of the display device and disabling presentation of the images when motion is not detected during a predetermined amount of time.
 27. The visualization instrument of claim 1, wherein the camera forms the digital image stream using radiation having wavelengths ranging between 10 nanometers and 14,000 nanometers.
 28. The visualization instrument of claim 27, wherein the camera forms the digital image stream using radiation having wavelengths in the visible light spectrum.
 29. The visualization instrument of claim 1, further comprising a protrusion and a recess configured to receive the protrusion, the recess and the protrusion generating an audible sound when the handle portion couples to the display device.
 30. The visualization instrument of claim 29, wherein the visualization instrument further comprises a display device support portion supporting the display device, the handle portion includes a handle cavity adapted to receive the display device support portion thereby coupling the display device to the insertable portion, one of the protrusion and the recess are positioned on the display device support portion and the other of the protrusion and the recess are positioned inside the handle cavity.
 31. A visualization instrument partially insertable into a patient, the visualization instrument comprising: a display device; a lens; a camera including an imaging sensor, the camera outputting a digital image stream corresponding to a plurality of views obtained through the lens; a handle portion detachably coupled to the display device; a self-contained energy source supported by one of the handle portion and the display device; and an insertable portion coupled to the handle portion and insertable into the patient, the insertable portion having a distal cavity at a distal end thereof receiving the lens and the camera, the camera electronically coupled to the display device when the insertable portion is coupled to the handle portion and the handle portion is coupled to the display device to present images corresponding to the plurality of views with the display device, the insertable portion further comprising at least two substantially non-resilient walls and at least one resilient wall, the at least two non-resilient walls and the at least one resilient wall forming a guide pathway operable to guide insertion of a tube into the patient and defining an elongate opening, the at least one resilient wall deforming when at least a portion of the tube is removed through the elongate opening.
 32. The visualization instrument of claim 31, wherein the handle portion and the insertable portion are integrally formed as a single piece blade.
 33. The visualization instrument of claim 32, wherein the blade is configured to be discarded after a single use.
 34. The visualization instrument of claim 31, wherein the guide pathway defines a proximal anterior/posterior height at one end thereof and a distal anterior/posterior height at a distal end thereof, the proximal anterior/posterior height being greater than the distal anterior/posterior height.
 35. The visualization instrument of claim 34, wherein the distal anterior/posterior height is at least 0.5 mm greater than the distal anterior/posterior height.
 36. The visualization instrument of claim 34, wherein the distal anterior/posterior height is at least 1.0 mm greater than the distal anterior/posterior height.
 37. The visualization instrument of claim 31, further comprising a distal tip extending distally beyond the lens, the distal tip having a textured surface operable to displace the glottis of the patient.
 38. The visualization instrument of claim 31, further comprising a distal tip extending distally beyond the lens and a processing device, the distal tip including a use indicia positioned within the field of view of the lens and operable to determine a use state of the insertable portion, wherein the processing device disables presentation of the images when the use state indicates prior uses exceed a permitted number of uses.
 39. The visualization instrument of claim 31, further comprising a distal tip extending distally beyond the lens, the distal tip including flexural strengthening features to reduce flexure of the distal tip by at least 5% when the distal tip engages the patient's tissue.
 40. The visualization instrument of claim 39, wherein the flexural strengthening features comprise at least one of a curved profile of the distal tip along its width, a longitudinal ridge extending from a surface of the distal tip, and a longitudinal wall.
 41. A visualization instrument partially insertable into a patient, the visualization instrument comprising: an insertable portion having guiding means for guiding insertion of a tube into a patient, the guiding means resiliently deforming when at least a portion of the tube is removed through the guiding means; attachment means for detachably coupling a display device to the insertable portion; and; imaging means for capturing a plurality of images corresponding to a field of view of the imaging means and outputting a digital image stream operable to present corresponding images with the display device. 